Candle Making
by Bradley Lumire
http://www.fmcandles.com
Candle making is lots of fun and a good pass time. Let~s
see how the following types of candles are made and also
the precautions to take while making candles.
The best way to melt and maintain the temperature of your
wax is by using a double boiler. The water temperature
should not go above 212~. The top pot of the double boiler
is called the pouring pot, this will contain the wax for
melting. This pot should never touch the heat source
directly. This reduces the danger of fire.
Choose a pot, large enough to hold the pouring pot, for the
bottom of the double boiler. Add 1 to 2 inches of water to
the bottom and bring it to a boil. The pouring pot should
sit inside the large pot and not touch the bottom of the
bigger pot. Place a metal ring under it to help if you
need. After the water comes to a boil, reduce the
temperature of the water. It is not necessary to boil the
water rapidly. Add water as necessary, as the water boils
off. Melt the wax in the pouring pot check the temperature
so as not to exceed the proper temperature for the type of
wax you are using.
The most common types of candles are metal pillar molds .
They come in various shapes and sizes. The molds are also
made of different materials, like aluminum, silicone and
plastic. For a long lasting mold look to sheet metal or
aluminum, they last years and need the least amount of
maintainance.When pouring the candle put it on a cookie
sheet to level the base of the candle. When cooled in the
refrigerator for about 15 minutes after pouring, the candle
will slide out easily. The cooling allows for separation of
the candle and mold.
There are some safety measures to take when candle making.
Always have a fire extinguisher handy at hand. Never use
water to put out a wax fire, it is like an oil fire. Never
leave the wax unattended. The temperature raises quickly,
making it more likely to catch fire, once it is liquid.
Make it a habit to monitor your wax closely. If the wax
gets above the 300~ flash point the vapors are quite
flammable. Try to keep it below 250~. Prevent dangerous
temperatures by using the double boiler. A safe heating
source is electricity as flames may ignite the wax vapors
more easily. Lastly, use a thermometer to monitor the wax's
temperature.
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